R.I. Gen. Laws § 20-2.2-4: License required.

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to fish recreationally in the marine waters of Rhode Island without:

(1) A recreational fishing license issued in accordance with the provisions of this chapter;

(2) A recreational fishing license or registration issued by any other exempted state that affords reciprocity to Rhode Island residents who hold recreational fishing licenses issued pursuant to this chapter; or

(3) A federal saltwater angler registration issued by the National Marine Fisheries Service.

(b) An individual will be considered to be fishing recreationally if they are engaged in the process of angling or spearfishing, or if they possess equipment used for angling or spearfishing and are also in possession of finfish.